What to expect
Most people only hire a lawyer a few times in their lives. Here is exactly how it works with us, from the first message to the engagement letter, so there are no surprises.
The process
Nothing binds you until the engagement letter is signed. Until then you're free to ask questions, take time to think, or go elsewhere.
A few lines through the form, or a phone call.
Use the consultation form or call the office. A short outline is all we need at this stage: the kind of matter, who else is involved, and any deadline you know of. Keep the private details for the meeting itself.
Before any details, we confirm we can help.
Lawyers can't advise two sides of the same matter. Before we discuss your situation, we check the names you give us against our records. It's quick, and it's why the form asks who else is involved.
Time with an attorney, and a plan to leave with.
You'll meet the attorney who would handle your matter. Expect plain questions, an honest view of your options, and an outline of what the next few months could look like. Bring the documents listed below.
Nothing begins until you've signed.
If you'd like us to take the matter on, you'll receive an engagement letter setting out exactly what we'll do, who will do it, and how fees work. No work begins, and no fee is charged beyond the consultation, until you sign.
You always know where things stand.
You'll know who is handling your matter and how to reach them. We tell you when something changes, explain what it means, and check with you before any decision that's yours to make.
Fees
After the consultation, if you'd like the firm to take on your matter, you'll get a written engagement letter that sets out the work, who will do it, and how it will be billed.
Some matters suit a flat fee agreed in advance, such as a set of estate planning documents or a contract review. Others, such as a contested divorce, are billed by the hour because no one can know in advance how much work they'll need. Either way, you'll know which applies to you, and why, before you sign.
What you tell a lawyer while seeking legal advice is treated as confidential, even at the consultation stage and even if you don't go on to hire the firm.
The website form is different: it's fine for an outline, but keep the private details for the consultation itself.
A lawyer can't advise both sides of the same matter. Before we discuss your situation in detail, we check the names of the people involved against our records.
That's why the consultation form asks who else is involved. Names are all we need.
Any documents that relate to your matter: court papers, an existing will or trust, contracts, or recent statements. Each practice area page has a short checklist.
Missing paperwork never stops a first conversation.
Next step
Tell us briefly what's happening and we'll arrange a consultation. We reply within [RESPONSE TIME].